Given the popularity of the mountain and my anecdotal perception that many first timers are eschewing South Ridge and instead looking for more other ascent options, how long before other routes will be subjected to similar markings? Perhaps folk seeing these markers may consider it acceptable practice to do themselves?
It's inevitable. Pads will form on bushy ridges, then erosion will form tracks that eventually will have to be marked and managed by National Parks. We cannot stop this but mentor and educate in a positive manner the new users. With the explosion of the internet and the ease of communication between us, most of terrains are not a secret anymore. It is all there on display and in particular Mt. Barney, fairly easy to access and navigate.
I believe we should use any possible platform to educate positively to leave no trace and preservation. Could be this forum, a bushwalking club, climbing gym or gyms, facebook, schools. It may not reach 100% of people but will have an impact in the long term.
They need to realise that they are littering. If tape is used they also have an obligation to remove it. It is NOT their right to mark the route for others.
My wife asked me to stop bringing home dirty clothes with pockets filled with pink tape. I suggest people to keep removing them and spread the word about the ethic of route marking. The spray cans in the other hand are just pure vandalism IMO. The presence of Rangers on a busy track on weekends could also be beneficial.